#melodious warbler

[birdblues]

Melodious Warbler

[blogbirdfeather]

Melodious Warbler - Felosa-poliglota (Hippolais polyglotta)

Alcochete/Portugal (18/04/2024)

[Nikon D500; AF-S Nikkor 500mm F5,6E PF ED VR with Nikon AF-S TC-14E III; 1/600s; F8; 500 ISO]

[mrsbuckybarnes1917]

FINDING YOU Chapter 1

Summary: You're in a relationship with Steve Rogers, but his best friend just always seems to be around!

Word Count: 2.7K

Warnings: NSFW, smut, mild angst

MASTERLIST

CHAPTER 1

Birds chirped blithely outside your window and a smile tugged at your lips as the sweet sound brought you to the world of consciousness. It was early, but the yellow-rumped warbler that frequented the tree outside your apartment was belting its melodious wake up call. The mattress you were laying on creaked slightly as the man lying beside you stirred. He was the reason you were able to name the avian creature who sang to you every morning. Steve Rogers was a man with a wide, albeit strange breadth of knowledge. He had been the one who had informed you of the markings on the warbler which gave it its name.

Steve was an early bird, akin to the warbler, who you fondly referred to as Butter Butt. A smile spread across your face as your boyfriend's hand crept across your abdomen. You turned to face him, twisting your fingers between his. You expected to see his smile, but his face was still buried in his pillow. It was most unlike Steve to not be out of bed within moments of waking, the military life had instilled a deep sense of discipline that was hard to break, despite the fact that the war was long since fought.

For the briefest of moments, you were concerned that something was wrong and you untangled your hand from his so you could stroke his sandy cropped locks.

"Ste-"

The sound that left your mouth ended with a gasp as the hand that had been resting on your abdomen curled around your waist and pulled you sharply into his side.

"Steve," you sighed, nuzzling his ear. "You scared me."

"Did it get your heart pumping?" Steve asked slyly, a mischievous grin making an appearance from the pillow. 

You swatted his chest playfully, not wanting to scare away his impish nature. It wasn't often that you got to see this side of Steve, relaxed, flirtatious, horny. His erection was pressed up against your thigh, how had you not noticed immediately?

"It's not the only thing," you giggled.

A pink tinge spread across Steve's cheeks. As hard as he tried, he hadn't quite shaken his virtuous upbringing. And what Steve lacked in his use of language, he more than made up for with his tongue.

His large palm guided your waist, rolling you into his embrace. Lips brushed against yours, the field of hair that had sprouted across his face swept against your cheek. It felt so gloriously rugged beneath your fingertips. Oh how you longed to feel it against your skin. That first brush was barely a prelude to what Steve had in store for you that morning. Every kiss he pressed against your face was more desperate than the last. Finally slipping his tongue into your mouth, it tangoed with yours, a seductive dance he executed with skill and finesse. The way he twisted it around yours already had you squirming with anticipation. Steve buried his hand in your hair and caressed your scalp, moaning as you captured his lower lip between your teeth, gently nibbling at the plump pink flesh.

Just as you thought you couldn't wait any longer for him to take things further, Steve rolled towards you. The pressure of his body pressed against yours was an aphrodisiac on its own but Steve had a way of knowing exactly how to make you feel wanted. He pushed his knee between your legs, thrusting his pelvis into yours until the only thing separating you and his rock hard member was the strained fabric of his boxers and the flimsy lace which covered your entrance. 

You wrapped your legs around his waist, reveling in the feel of his clothed cock rubbing against you. Steve watched your face as you closed your eyes, letting the waves of pleasure wash through your body, truly waking you from the slumber you'd not long left.

"I am so lucky to have you," he whispered, smiling down at you. 

"That you are, Rogers," you smirked, not opening your eyes, knowing that his beautiful blue ones would pierce through to the very depths of your soul. There were times you loved the feeling of being so seen by someone you loved and other times it frightened you. Now wasn't the best time to let your thoughts spiral out of control, you wanted to enjoy the moment. "Now could you just fuck me already?"

"Language!" he grinned and complied without hesitation. Swiftly, he hoisted your legs onto his shoulders and pulling aside the small strip of cloth covering your dripping slit, he proceeded to devour you, stopping just as you started to feel that familiar coil in the pit of your stomach.

"Steeeeeve," you whined, finally opening your eyes as he denied your release.

He chuckled, "Why do you get to have all the fun, Ace?"

Your pout dissolved and the corners of your mouth crept into a small smile at the use of the nickname he had chosen for you. It had been a compliment when he'd first said it, the use of the forties slang making you laugh and him blush in return.

"Ace?" you'd asked.

"Yeah, you know, you're smart," he explained, in reference to your job.

And somehow it had just stuck.

"You're going to have to take off your pants if we're going to deal with that," you pointed down at his tented boxers.

Steve released his grip on your legs and now he was the one sitting exposed between your legs. He stood to attention before your eyes, hard and erect, with a glisten at the head which told you he was ready for action.

"Maybe you should get yourself caught up," you suggested slyly.

"You're making me do all the work this morning!"

"Hey, you started this!" you chastised before propping yourself up on your elbows, wanting to ensure your line of vision was unobstructed. 

The urge to reach out and stroke him was strong, but you held your hands away, until he asked. Your breath came hard and fast as you watched Steve work his hand up and down his length. Mesmerized, you found it impossible to tear your eyes away from the way Steve’s fingers slid over the ridges of his erection, the well defined grooves that frequently drove you crazy when he pushed inside you.  Intently you watched, that was until you felt Steve's eyes boring into you. Your gaze snapped up to meet him. The smirk on his lips was bigger than ever and you felt a blush creep into your already flushed cheeks, the garnacha rosé turning a merlot red. You bit your lip and smiled shyly. 

"Come on Ace," he panted, "you don't want to miss out now, do ya?" Steve edged closer to you. 

"Definitely not," you held out your hand for him to take.

Steve took the cue and crawled over to you so that his body was directly over yours. He snaked his fingers between yours and pinned your hands on either side of your head. Seeing him tower over you sent a pang of anticipation and desire through you and suddenly you were tired of waiting for him to act. It was time for you to take things into your own hands.

Even though Steve was practically twice your size and had you pinned down on the bed, you had a few tricks of your own. You hooked your foot around his and with one swift movement, you were able to thrust your hips and flip the super soldier onto his back.

Steve landed on his back with a small 'oof' as you landed gracefully above him. You could feel his cock throbbing with need as you teased him, rubbing yourself along his shaft at an agonizingly slow pace.

"Come on, be a good girl. Pleeease, Ace," he was practically begging.

Laughing, you held the swollen head of his cock at your leaking entrance, slowly teasing the slit before letting your folds glide down his impressive length.

“You feel so good!”

"You like that, huh?" you purred seductively, gently scratching your nails across his bare chest.

"Sure do Ace.” He snaked his fingers around your wrist, urging you to come closer.

You leaned forward, placing one hand on either side of his head. Immediately you remembered why this had been so fantastic, as your clit brushed over the base of his erection. Steve groaned beneath you as you bucked your hips faster, pushing against him to maximize the ecstatic sensations spreading through your neurons.

Steve propped himself up on his elbows and the two of you were now face to face, close enough for him to brush his lips on yours. His hot breath on your lips made you long for more. Steve had a bad habit of reading you like a book. He recognised the meaning of every breath, every desperate whine that left your lips. He knew exactly how to make your toes curl.

Steve reached down with one hand, the other tucked into the small of your back, he grazed over your clit. It was slow and seductive and made you want to scream. Your moan was carnal and your pleasure echoed around the bare plastered walls of the bedroom.

"Hey now," Steve's tone was hushed.

"What? Not being loud enough?" You drawled, having recovered enough to form a coherent question. 

"No, Bucky will hear you."

"So what?" You felt a small spark of irritation. "You worried about his beauty sleep?" 

"No, I- I just want this part of you to be just for me. Is that OK?"

You shrugged your compliance, not wanting to ruin the good time you were both having. Before you knew it, his tongue was in your mouth, both of you rocking and moaning through your orgasms.

You lay beside Steve in a post orgasmic bliss. Your body was still tingling and your muscles felt relaxed, but your mind was raging like a tropical storm. It was as though your thoughts were bursting to escape, and escape they did. Your lips were moving before you had a chance to think about the repercussions of your words.

"If you didn't want Bucky to hear us, maybe we should sleep in my apartment from now on."

"You know why we can't do that," Steve answered calmly. 

Of course you knew. You weren't a brain surgeon but you were smart enough to have an M.D.. But apparently you had no control over your feelings. The sullenness and jealousy was taking over and you wanted to run from it.

"Fine, I'm going back to my apartment to shower. I have to get ready for work." You tried to keep your voice as neutral as possible

Steve sighed. You'd sacrificed a lot of your privacy for Bucky's sake, despite the way he treated you.

You shot out of the room before Steve had the chance to say another word. As you made your escape, you had to step over a blanket and pillow in the living room to reach the front door. At first you felt relief that you didn't have to look Bucky in the eye as you left, but as you reached for the front door, you caught a flash of light reflecting off his vibranium arm. It was then that you knew that Bucky had heard every word you'd said. 

Mortified, you couldn’t leave fast enough. You wrenched open the door and stumbled to your apartment across the hall. Crap, you thought as you stripped off your clothes and made your way to the bathroom. There were times when you wished that for once you'd come first. You felt selfish and petty, but you couldn't shake the feeling, so instead you vehemently turned the shower on to a scalding temperature and stood under it pondering your dilemma.

Then there was Bucky, formerly known as the Winter Soldier. Winter was an apt description, because the cold shoulder you suffered from him was enough to give the snow queen frostbite. But that didn’t mean you wanted to purposefully hurt his feelings.

As easy as it was standing in the shower feeling sorry for yourself, you needed to get to work. You loved your position at the Coulson Academy, teaching gifted and enhanced kids about their physiology and how to control their abilities. It felt like the perfect career choice for you, to use your medical degree and understanding of the human body to help other people through the same thing you'd experienced.

You'd been one of the few people who'd had the honor of working with Agent Phil Coulson and following him had led to some of the best and worst experiences of your life. One of these was terrigenesis. You'd been exposed to the mist produced by terrigen crystals and been transformed into an inhuman. 

You'd been lucky enough to have explored your own physiological changes with the help of Agents Fitz and Simmons and the opportunity to train to fight with Melinda May. May! You needed to move, she may be your closest friend, but she wasn't one to accept tardiness from anyone.

Steve had taken a few moments to think about what you'd said. But it was not as though he'd not thought about it a hundred times before. He understood why you wanted privacy and Bucky sleeping on the floor of his apartment was definitely putting a damper on the romance in your relationship.

And despite all that, Bucky had never once abandoned him when they were kids. All the double dates he had dragged Steve on, only for Steve to end up the third wheel when his date was a no show. He wouldn't be the one to let Bucky down now, they were in this together, til the end of the line. Sighing, he got out of bed.

"Hey," Bucky grunted, not looking up from raiding the fridge.

"Hey. Buck look I'm sorry about-"

"No, she has a point. I should find myself somewhere to live." He pulled a large bowl out of the cupboard.

"Buck-"

"Steve," he interrupted. "I'm a grown man. I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself." He waved a whisk at Steve as he spoke.

Steve watched him throw milk and flour into the bowl without using any measuring devices. He didn't need it, he'd been doing it ever since Steve could remember. Bucky would tell him to come over so they could walk to school together and Steve would turn up to him making pancakes for him on most mornings. Bucky had always been good to him, even though his family had never been well off, he made sure that Steve was fed breakfast. 

"I know Buck, but that doesn't mean that you have to."

It didn't take long before Bucky had cracked some eggs and whisked the pancake mixture into a smooth batter. He had the stove ignited and was pouring the mix onto a crepe pan before Steve spoke again.

"Plus who's going to keep making me pancakes for breakfast?" Steve chuckled. He was glad when Bucky grinned back at him. 

Bucky flipped a pancake and then slid it onto a plate in front of his friend. He picked up the bowl to start another but paused half way, batter dripping on to the hot pan, making it sizzle. Hesitation etched across his face. "Is this what you really want?"

"Pancakes for breakfast? When have I ever said no to pancakes?"

Bucky was silent again, trying to salvage the pan to continue cooking. "I mean… Ace."

"What are you talking about?"

"I just mean," Bucky shrugged, not sure how to express himself. "I want you to be happy."

"I am happy, Bucky."

"And you love her?"

"Why are you asking me these questions?"

"I just want you to be happy, that's all." Bucky gave Steve his famous pensive stare.

"I am, Buck. Are you?"

Bucky shrugged.

"How're the therapy sessions?"

"Court mandated."

"You gotta put in the work, Buck."

"When did this become about me?"

"Since you suggested moving out would solve everyone's issues."

Bucky snickered, "eat your pancakes and go to work, Rogers."

[doahaesunshine]

Chapter 10

Chaper WC: 4038

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Is there anything more tempting Than secrets? Knowledge is Power. And some will do anything to obtain it. Seems like a Fool’s Errand to me.

These past few months were busy with learning history, spellwork, and language, each had taken up an abundance of your time but it was worth it. The tome Archivist Jeon had given you, Historia Arcanorum – or History of Arcana in English – has shown to be very helpful now that you could read a decent bit of Lungue Magica. Deep diving into the book was enough to have you learn more about Arcanist Society and the vaste individual schools of magic. Sadly, none of them included Empathy. 

As it turns out, Empathy was what Arcanists call a Personalis Ars – a personal talent – which is the reason there was no formal school of magic for Empathy. All Arcanists and their families had personal talents that were unique to their bloodlines. The information had filled you with even more questions. Why would someone like you – a human – have a personal talent? But then you remembered Vernon also had one which left you with even more questions. 

There was still a lot to learn despite the lengths you have taken. A few of the passages in the tome were still unintelligible and you were hellbent on needing to understand every single word. Thankfully Jeonghan had agreed to continue teaching you, really you didn’t know where you would be without his help. 

The spring season had bloomed with warmer weather and longer days. Even though you were making plenty of progress, you felt like you could be doing more. Magic was still a mystery to you, it was overwhelming more than anything, and you didn’t know what school to begin studying. 

Soonyoung desperately tried to convince you to learn Evocation, something about you being in their house anyways, but when you asked him if he would teach you, he said that Jihoon would be a better teacher. While the idea of Jihoon, an Arcanist who specializes in Pyromancy and has experimented on spells way too often in your presence, was tempting, he was ultimately a no-go at the idea. 

Seungkwan mentioned that if you were interested in practical magic, Archivist Jeon could mentor you in Transmutation. The thought of the icey, unreadable Archivist teaching you was inconceivable though. It wasn’t that you didn’t trust his abilities, you just weren’t too keen on the idea of both him and Cosmo staring you down, probably a little judgemental, as you learned. 

Several nights were filled with wonder, trying to figure out if there was a school of magic for you, yet nothing seemed to click. After a while, you stopped worrying about such a big step and threw your focus into Lingua Magic. It became more important to read what you were going to learn, rather than casting cool magic with words you didn’t fully understand.  

The balcony became your favorite place to study, finding it easier to focus on the words in the presence of fresh air and natural light. As you sat on the floor, back pressed against the fencing and time resting in your lap, you studied in peace. Your notebook was open on the ground beside you for easy access when scribbling down a definition, a new word, or a question you would ask Jeonghan at your next lesson.

Just above you on the stop of the railing sat a small yellow warbler, it was a seemingly constant presence each time you were out here studying. Something about the small song bird was so familiar yet you couldn’t place your finger on it. It chirped a quick but pleasant melody that made you smile in response. It hopped further down the railing, easier to look at without craning your neck. You stared at the vibrant bird, appreciating its simple yet charming beauty, but it startled when the door to the balcony opened a little too quickly. 

At your eye level, you first were met with the soft, fluffy face of Ruby, but as you looked up you saw Jihoon’s stern expression. 

“You’re still studying up here?” He asked as he walked to the railing. “Aren’t you hungry?”

The question caught you off guard. “No- or- I don’t know. What time is it?”

“Half past two.”

“Shit-” You grabbed your books and stood to leave.

“You’ve learned the Lingua Magica pretty fast.”

You paused and turned your attention to Jihoon who was now leaning with his back against the railing. He raised his brow as if he were waiting for a response.

“Um- yeah. I want to learn it so that I can translate the tome Archivist Jeon gave me. Also the language isn’t super far from English so…” You trailed off.

“So?” Jihoon appeared puzzled. “Out of all the humans who have come here from Realm Nihl, you are the first to dedicate yourself to learning the language- well, besides Joshua- By the way, who’s teaching you?”

“Seungkwan’s Mentor? He’s from Earth -Earth? Like me?”

“Don’t dodge the question.” Jihoon sighed as he leaned his head to the side.

“Fine. If you’re so curious about me learning a language then ask about it, but I want to ask some questions too.”

Another deep exhale escaped Jihoon as he nodded his head, agreeing to your proposition.

“Okay-” You took a deep breath. “An Arcanist I met the same day Dino was freaking out about me going into the forest, that’s who’s teaching me.”

Jihoon tilted his head to the side as he furrowed his brow. “Does this Arcanist have a name?”

“My question first!” You said with a smug grin. “You said Joshua is from Realm Nihl? I’m curious about that.”

“Fine.” Jihoon groaned. “Joshua comes from a family of Arcanists, the Hongs. Very good reputation, the best Wards you will ever find, but Joshua and his parents broke away from the family. Something about not agreeing with how their talent was being used- whatever - basically Joshua’s parents had a target on their head for turning against the family. Mr. and Mrs. Hong begged Archivist Jeon to take their son back so that he could grow up in a safe environment…”

Surprised by the amount of information Jihoon offered, you listened intently.

“So overall Joshua Hong is a very powerful Ward Mage that is essentially Archivist Jeon’s responsibility. It’s complicated as hell.”

“I can see that.” You chuckled.

“My question now. The Arcanist who is teaching you, what’s their name?”

As Jihoon asked his question, you checked your pocket watch, a cute trinket Dino gifted you so that you could manage your time better.The two of you had been chatting longer than you thought.

“Hold that question- I have to attend my lesson.” You said as you rushed toward the exit.

With a scoff, Jihoon tried to follow inside but you were already down the hall. “Hey! I’m not going to let you evade me like you evade Archivist Jeon!”

“What’s that?!” You yelled. “I can’t hear you from over here!”

Rolling his eyes, Jihoon returned to the balcony as you continued to sprint out of the building. 

Memorizing the route to the glade was easy, especially when Jeonghan had been teaching you the Lingua Magica daily. During the winter you had wondered why he never offered to teach you at his home or traveled to your dorm. You assumed the glade was a middle ground and left it at that. 

As you were running down the path Eris materialized next to you, matching your pace.

“Going to meet the charmer once again are we?”

It still amazed you that familiars could be with their Arcanist one moment and then decide to escape into the ether the next. You remember the first time it happened – it scared the shit out of you – but it also put you at ease knowing that the leopard could hide herself. Eris still intentionally jumpscared you for her own entertainment, needless to say the dynamic you two shared hadn’t changed much.

“Yes, I am. Does it really surprise you that I have a genuine interest in the language?”

Eris’s chuckle resonated in your mind. “It surprises me that your only intention is to learn.”

“What?” You said out loud without realizing.

“I’m just stating the obvious. He’s very kind to you and very handsome too. I wouldn't be surprised if he fancies you-”

“Woah!” You exclaimed. “What the hell are you on about? Are you my mom or something? Trying to get me to date my friend?”

Eris rolled her eyes. “Oh! So you two are friends now?”

You scoffed and dropped the subject leaving the rest of the hike in peaceful silence.

Entering the glade, the familiar sight of the pink blossomed tree welcomed you. A calm breeze blew through the branches causing loose petals to scatter in the wind and the chimes to sing out their notes. Jeonghan was nowhere to be seen which was odd because he was almost always here before you. Carefully, you walked up the steps and found your company lounging on the old stone bench.

An open tome rested on his chest as he napped in the shade of the tree.

Secreta Sanguis et Mors. Secrets of blood and death.

“You’re later than usual.” 

Jeonghan’s voice startled you as he spoke with his eyes closed. Slowly he rose to address you, a smug smile across his face.

“Did you get lost after all this time?”

“No, of course not.” You sighed. “My roommate was bombarding me with questions.”

“What kinds of questions?”

“Unimportant ones.” The words sounded more peeved than you meant them to be.

“Sage…” Jeonghan sang your name out, beckoning you. “What kinds of questions?”

There was a slight tug in your chest, Jeonghan always said your name with such an inviting quality. 

“Um-” You stuttered. “Like I said, they weren’t important. He just wanted to know why I was so interested in learning Lingua Magica. Speaking of- I’m ready to start my lessons!”

“About that…” Jeonghan thought for a moment and then shook his head. “I had something else in mind. Something I wanted to show you…”

A twinge of ambivalence filled you as Jeonghan spoke.Was he nervous about something? 

You disregarded the feeling. “Oh- Sure. What did you have in mind?”

“You’ll just have to find out- and don’t worry, I’ll still teach you today. I just wanted a change of scenery.” Jeonghan stood from the bench and offered you his hand.

The promise of learning was all you needed in order to agree to a small journey. Gently, you placed your hand in Jeonghan’s, his skin was cold to the touch, nearly matching the weather outside. Almost  instinctively, you held his hand tighter and rubbed your thumb into the skin of it, hoping the gesture would warm him.

A soft snicker emanated from Jeonghan. “Thank you, but I naturally just run a bit cooler than most people.”

Learning that fact made heat begin to rise to your face but you quickly pushed away the embarrassment. 

The two of you ventured out of the glade and in the direction that Jeonghan usually left in. Tall evergreen trees hugged the stone path you walked, the trees were imposing and made you feel slightly claustrophobic with how close they were. You squeezed Jeonghan’s hand to provide some sort of comfort, his skin was still cool to the touch but it wasn’t uncomfortable.

“Here we are.” Jeonghan said as he picked up the pace, nearly dragging you along.

The tree line grew sparse and an opening appeared, the subtle scent of salt carried in the breeze that blew past you. Jeonghan halted, causing you to bump into his back, you were going to complain but the scene before you was a good distraction.

A vast, deep blue lake centered itself in the forest. It spread so far that you could barely see the other side. Floating in the lake were white winged birds, gray patterns decorating their feathers, you recognized them as albatrosses, a rare yet beautiful bird. They were so eye catching you nearly forgot that you aren’t meant to be here, that it could harm you to linger.

“Jeonghan-”

“It’s okay, Sage.” He stopped your warning and slowly brought you toward the edge of the lake. “This isn’t the same area.”

You raised your brow at his comment. “How do you know?”

Jeonghan looked at you with kind, gentle eyes. “I spoke with the person who saved you.”

He released his grasp on your hand and sat on one of the many rocks along the lake’s shore. Still you were nervous, even if it wasn’t the lake, it was still a lake and you didn’t know exactly what would trigger an episode and you didn’t want to find out.

“Come sit with me, Sage.” Jeonghan said as he lightly patted the rock next to him. “Enjoy the lake air with me.”

You sighed in defeat and joined Jeonghan on the shore, placing your books in your lap as you sat next to him. 

“Did you just want to show me the lake?”

He laughed softly. “I wanted you to see the birds…”

You turned your attention back to the albatrosses in the lake. The two birds floated side by side, grooming each other, obviously a mated pair. As you focused on your surroundings, you could hear birdsong coming from the woods behind you. You closed your eyes and listened, allowing yourself to enjoy the sound.

“Really.” You kept your eyes shut as you spoke. “You wanted me to see some birds.”

“Yes. I saw that you sometimes draw birds in your notebook.”

The idea of Jeonghan bringing you to a lake just because you like to doodle them every so often made you snicker.

“How thoughtful of you.” Sarcasm laced your words.

“I was also getting tired of that glade.” Jeonghan said as he chuckled.

“There it is~”  You rolled your eyes dramatically. “I knew this was for your own personal gain.”

A small smile formed on Jeonghan’s lips. “Yup, I’m so selfish~ Now give me your tome. I’ll make some notes for you.”

Swiftly, you handed him your tome along with your notebook and watched as he translated more passages. 

You had to admit, the change in scenery definitely helped with the lesson. The atmosphere was different, calming even though you were nervous in the beginning. As Jeonghan continued to scribble in your notebook, you looked out into the lake. The albatrosses were long gone, leaving the lake empty and lonely. 

Another brackish breeze blew by and this time it lingered. It didn’t smell bad, but it wasn’t a scent you would want around you all day. There was something familiar about the aroma as well as the way the lake’s current lapped at the side of the rocks. For a moment your vision unfocused as you lost yourself in your thoughts.

“Sage?” Jeonghan called out.

You blinked back to focus and looked over at your company.

“Did you hear what I said?” He stared at you with round eyes, a slight furrow to his brow.

“Hm? Oh- no?”

Jeonghan pointed to your notebook. “ Incantatio . It means Enchantment, like the school.”

You read the note Jeonghan made. As usual he provided the Arcane sigil and the translation in both Lingua Magica and English. 

“I could teach you.”

The statement piqued your interest.

“Enchantment is all about words- incantations. You learned the Lingua Magica so fast, I’m sure you would absorb the school of Enchantment easily.”

You took a moment to think. From what Seungkwan told you, Enchantment was all about charms and enchanting items. It was apparently a more tame school, scholars and artists enjoyed the subject. Less flashy than Evocation but flashier than Transmutation.

A grin formed on your face. “Now try and really sell it to me. Like you work at a car dealership.”

Jeonghan squinted as he tried to figure out what you were saying.

“Haggle with me.” You said in a flat tone. “You really want me to learn Enchantment? Convince me.”

Jeonghan smirked, accepting the challenge. “Enchantment is a school that embraces creativity and cunning. You’ll be able to learn a person’s deepest desires and use it to your advantage. Fighting with intellect is just as powerful as fighting with brawn.” His eyes locked with yours. “Isn’t there someone you’re curious about? Someone that intrigues you or maybe even pisses you off? Wouldn’t it be nice to know what makes them tick?”

The more Jeonghan spoke the harder it was to tear your gaze away, it was enrapturing. As you continued to stare, a subtle blue glow emanated from his irises and you couldn’t help but train your focus on his eyes.

“But that would be ridiculous.” Jeonghan snapped his attention away from you. “The school of Enchantment has a lot of potential, but Arcanist’s mainly use it to create magical objects.”

“Even if it’s just that, I’m interested.” You finally replied.

Jeonghan smiled as he looked out into the lake. “Good. I’d be more than happy to teach you Enchantment.” He returned his attention to you. “I’ll teach you something simple right now.”

Soon the space between you two shrunk as Jeonghan leaned in eye locking onto yours once again.

“ Dominare Mentem .” He whispered close, the same blue tint appearing in his eyes.

A dull throb pounded in your head but it didn’t last long. The pain subsided and you were left with a cloudy feeling akin to the sensation of waking up in the middle of the night not knowing where you are.

“Domi- I understand Mentem . It means mind, correct?”

A pleased expression consumed Jeonghan’s face as he grinned. “Yes. See you learn quickly!”

“Did you just cast a spell on my mind?”

Jeonghan scoffed. “Oh please. If I wanted to cast a spell on you I would have done it the first day we met.”

“Thank you, Jeonghan. That is very reassuring.” You stated monotonously.

He didn’t say anything other than laugh in your face. Enchantment may have been his school of choice, but the raven haired man had the eloquence of a toothpick. 

“Well-” Jeonghan gathered your books and stood, holding out his free hand for you to grab. “It’s getting late, Sage. You should head home.”

You held onto his hand and pulled yourself up. “You’re right, the sun is starting to set.” A quick peek at your pocket watch showed that it was already six in the evening. “Shit, Mingyu is going to kill me if I’m late for dinner.”

“Mingyu lives with you as well?”

“Huh? No. He just makes us dinner.”

Jeonghan nodded. “Let me take you back to the glade, we can part there.”

Agreeing, you followed Jeonghan down the path from which you came without holding his hand this time. You clutched onto your books and shuffled next to Jeonghan, something about the trees here unsettled you. Without even noticing, you held onto his elbow for support, the proximity immediately calming you.

A low chuckle resonated from Jeonghan, but he bent his arm to create space for you to link arms with him. The two of you continued down the path, arm in arm.

By the time you were back at the glade, the sun had set beyond the treeline, causing the area to be shrouded in dim light. 

“Are you sure you don’t want me to accompany you back to your dorm?” Jeonghan asked before you could leave.

“I’m sure!” You called out as you passed the threshold and exited the glade. “Goodnight, Jeonghan.”

You received a two finger salute in response from Jeonghan before he turned around and disappeared into the woods. 

As you were traveling down the stone path, Eris materialized beside you.

“You forgot to ask him what the spell did.”

Stopping in your tracks, you turned to Eris, mouth agape in disbelief of your own foolishness.

“This is exciting! What if you turn into a toad in the middle of the night?”

By the time you reached the dorm, all worries had washed away.If Jeonghan had really casted a spell on you it probably would have had an effect by now. Upon entering the building, you were met with Yucca sitting in the center of the entrance, big ears twitching curiously. The small fennec fox stood and turned his butt to you, walking down the hallway. You followed the little familiar to the dining room and were met with Mingyu cleaning the table of plates.

“You’re late.” 

“I’ve heard that a lot today…” You responded with a sigh.

“You’re usually only gone for an hour and a half.” Mingyu pouted as he complained.

“I know, it’s been-”

“Four hours!”

With a deep breath you calmed your nerves. “Okay. How about I clean up? To make up for being late.”

“No-” Mingyu continued to sulk. “I fixed you a plate. It’s on the counter, eat.”

When you turned your gaze to the counter, a full plate of eggs, pancakes, and sausage was left untouched. Breakfast for dinner, for some reason the idea of it was nostalgic. You grabbed the plate and took a seat at one of the stools by the center island. As you enjoyed your food, Mingyu carried on, scrubbing the plates clean and wiping down the counters. Yucca stationed himself at the archway leading to the dining room, guarding the entrance.

Drying his hands on a clean towel, he wandered over to the center island, throwing the towel over his shoulder. 

“So…” Mingyu exhaled.

You looked up to him with the fork still in your mouth. “So…” 

“Where were you? These past few weeks you’ve been… vacant.”

Puzzled, you grimaced. “Vacant?”

Mingyu groaned. “Why do I have to be the one to do this? Vernon said you’ve been a little- I don’t want to say unapproachable but …” He muttered for a moment as he searched for the words. “Distant, maybe even a bit guarded? I don’t know, he just said the two of you haven’t been hanging out as much lately.”

You swallowed another bite of your food. “Oh my- Is this an intervention?”

“Sage! Be serious for once, please.” Mingyu frowned. “Is it really so weird that the people you live with are worried about you?”

A prominent crease formed on your brow as you digested Mingyu’s words. “I don’t know why they’re so worried. I’ve just been receiving lessons on the Lingua Magica. I want to fully translate this tome Archivist Jeon gave me…” 

“Jihoon told me about that, he said you avoided his questions.” 

“I answered some of them!” You interjected.

Mingyu’s expression was shrouded with doubt. “You never told him who was teaching these lessons. Will you tell me?”

You tried to avoid his eyes but Mingyu was adamant, smiling like a puppy with sparkly eyes to try and persuade you. 

“Fine, I surrender- I’ll tell you whatever you want!” You sighed deeply. “It’s-” The name was on the tip of your tongue but it faded immediately. “It’s uh…” A familiar dull ache thrummed in your head. “Sorry- The person who’s teaching me- right- um…”

Mingyu rounded the counter to stand in front of you. “Are you alright, Sage?” He gently placed his hand on your forehead, checking for a fever. “You’re a little warm. Were you outside the entire time? It’s still cold out, you should be wearing warmer clothing.”

There was worry in Mingyu’s tone and you felt concern radiate from him. His heart was like an overflowing well, you were nervous he might start tearing up.

“Um- yeah… I was outside all day-” Your words trailed off as you sunk into the warmth of Mingyu’s hand, lethargy setting in.

Taking deep, calming breaths, you felt yourself drifting closer into unconsciousness. Your limbs tingled and if you weren’t careful, your knees would give out. 

“Sage? Are you sure you are okay?” The concern in Mingyu’s voice felt distant, nearly distorted. 

As you tried to speak next, no words came out and it was the final push to unconsciousness. You heard another shout of your name and a firm grip on your body before it all faded to black. 

To join a tag list, please comment on the Fallin' Flower Master List!

@reiofsuns2001 @shinwonderful @starstrawb

[arizonaaaaaa]

Glee cast sings The Fame by Lady Gaga

Made some threads on twitter, will post them here and talk about it endlessly since there’s no character limit here, I think

Just Dance feat. Colby O’Donis sung by Artie, Puck and Sam in “Prom Queen”

-I’m 70% confident Kevin mentioned they were going to sing this in a mash-up with Dj Got Us Fallin’ in Love, Puck and Sam’s country voices worked a lot in Friday so I think they would do something interesting with Just Dance, maybe not something everyone would like but I’m ver curious about it, no doubts Artie would slay the rapping.

LoveGame sung by Brittany and Quinn

-I can’t imagine a scene or episode where this could happen, maybe a cheerios practice in season 2, I thought about including Santana but I don’t think her voice would fit, I also ultimately wanted it to be a Fierce duet as their friendship was barely explored in glee.

Paparazzi sung by Rachel and Shelby in “Theatricality”

-I absolutely hate Poker Face gcv, it’s terrible, and the worse part: it’s sung by Lea and Idina, they are SO GOOD, and they would do such a good job, anyways, if they still wanted to do something slower and more broadway-y I think Paparazzi would be the fit, the song is very dramatic after all.

Poker Face sung by Mercedes and Tina in “Theatricality”

-as mentioned earlier, I despise Poker Face gcv, if they were going to stick to the original melody and overall style of the song, Tincedes in my opinion would kill it, Tina didn’t have a duet in season 1 so this could be so iconic, specially since the episode started with Tina finding a new look for her, just imagine both of them singing, Mercedes with that purple wig and Tina wearing *drum rolls* the meat dress, I would’ve died.

I Like It Rough sung by Santana Lopez in “Laryngitis”

-I can totally picture her singing this to Puck in the glee club, he would be smirking since the song is mildly dirty which would make Mercedes jealous and therefore would give birth to The Boy is Mine, this would also be her first solo on the show so.

Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) sung by Quinn Fabray in season 2

-I believe she could’ve sung this after Sam broke up with her and started dating Santana, the song is very slow, kind of like a ballad so I think it would fit Quinn’s more softer voice.

Starstruck feat. Flo Rida & Space Cowboy sung by Artie and Brittany in “Blame It On the Alcohol”

-honestly I can’t exactly picture a scene where this could happen, maaaybe a karaoke sort of scene where both of them are singing? I don’t know, all I know is that Gaga in this song sounds a lot like Heather Morris to me.

Beautiful, Dirty, Rich sung by Sugar Motta

-this could take place later in season 3 or in season 4 if they created a storyline where Sugar could sing, while not being the best singer, Vanessa Lengies can sing, and if I’m being honest, beautiful, dirty and rich describes Sugar very well.

The Fame sung by Blaine Anderson with the Warblers in season 2

-one of the infinite season 2 Blaine solos, not the biggest fan of acapella music but the warblers do it decently and I can almost listen to the warblers doing some “ding-ding-dee” in replace of the guitar in the beginning of the song.

Money Honey sung by Brittany, Kitty, Marley, Sugar, Tina and Unique in “Naked”

-the original episode focuses a lot on Rachel and the glee boys, honestly I don’t even remember if Brittany or Marley have lines this episode, either way, Wannabe and I Love It are very good and fun numbers so I’d love to see them perform this, I’d specially like to see Sugar singing the line “That's M-O-N-E-why so sexy?”.

Boys Boys Boys sung by Kurt Hummel in late season 2

-Kurt is hot, that’s true, he’s attractive, and even if a lot of guys weren’t romantically or sexually attracted to him, all of them liked Kurt, and Kurt deserved a song to show how awesome he was, this is it, instead of singing “Boys, Boys, Boys, we love them” as in Kurt’s attraction towards men, it would be “Boys, Boys, Boys, we love them” as in all of the boys happy that the awesome Kurt is back, and of course Kurt would be the only one actually singing, that’s Kurt “I’m singing a duet with the most talented person in the club … myself” Hummel after all.

Paper Gangsta sung by Quinn, Rachel and Santana

-unlike the previous description which in normal size characters was 11 lines long, I have no idea where or how this would take place, all I say is: their voices fit the song, specially Quinn’s.

Brown Eyes sung by Mike Chang in season 4

-I actually wanted Tina to sing this as her ballads are very good, but re-reading the lyrics (as well as literally the title of the song) Mike would be the perfect choice lyrics wise, brown eyes being Tina’s insecurity is so random but it’s an characteristic of her that I like, we never got an answer on why they broke up, it’s something I wanted to know very bad cause they seemed to be a very understanding couple regarding problems, and on top of that, just give Mike songs, seriously his last song was in season 4 episode 8, he appears in 10 episodes after this and not even a line in a group number? C’mon.

Summerboy sung by Kitty and Marley in early season 4

-I can see Kitty wanting to perform with Marley because “they’re friends” (or both dating Puckerman’s in this weird timeline where Noah “I like moms” Puckerman dated a sophomore) anyway, she doesn’t like Marley yet, she just wants Jake back and a reason to call Marley obese or something.

Disco Heaven sung by Brittany, Mercedes and Santana in season 3

-In my original thread I wrote this as a sancedes duet in laryngitis, and… it doesn’t make a lot of sense, their voices would do a good job but lyric wise it doesn’t relate? Personally, throw Brittany in the mix as a Trouble Tones number and boom, maybe this could take place in an alternate Saturday night glee-ver where after Mr Schue ask why they chose this song over any other from the movie Brittany would say: “I chose this cause I want to go to disco Heaven when I die not disco inferno”.

Again Again sung by Marley Rose in season 5

-hey so this song is a bonus track from the album that is not featured in the playlist at the beginning, so in order to hear it you’ll need to access YouTube cause it’s also not on Spotify. Back to the song, this could take place when Marley is suspecting that Jake might be cheating on her, music could end with idk Unique and Kitty hugging her.

Retro, Dance, Freak sung by Harmony

-also a bonus track that’s actually featured in the fame monster album, okay so… this song is very boring… like really boring… the only reason I chose Harmony for this was because it kind of sounds like her, literally because this song is fucking boring and I can’t think of someone else that could sing this.

Bonus: songs that aren’t from the album but are from the same era

Vanity sung by Rachel Berry in season 1

-this is such a Rachel coded song, I can totally picture her singing this at one point in the first season, maybe start as her singing at the auditorium following her to the hallways until she gets slushied, funny honestly since the song is about glamour and being famous.

Christmas Tree feat. Space Cowboy sung by Artie and Sugar

-I’m convinced every artist has a song that it’s absolutely terrible, for Katy Perry is Peacock, for Avril Lavigne is that cover of O Holy Night, for Gaga is this one, I have yet to hear something so terrible, literally sat down and felt like grinch, I would have Sugar sung this terribly in the episode and slightly better in the studio version cause even tho Vanessa Lengies can sing no one can sing this song and be good.

Fashion sung by Kurt and Tina in “Theatricality”

-rise animation meme fuckers, tbh I was very surprised a gaga song became an animation meme, I was even more surprised to know that the song was going to be featured in the sex and the city movie but got scrapped, anyway, the episode with Tina needing to find a new look, who better to help her than Kurt? This would look kind of like Diva in season 4 with Kurt and Tina cat walking and later Mercedes, Quinn, Brittany, Santana and Rachel would join.

And that’s it, an entire album with 14 songs, 3 bonus tracks and 3 other songs from the same era was covered, if you like it please share your opinion, if you didn’t please share as well, the next album will be The Fame Monster, that, due to the shorter numbers of songs it shouldn’t take long for me to post it, bye :)

[kadoo-experience-rwanda]

Unveiling Nyungwe National Park: A Birder's Paradise in Rwanda

Imagine a lush, verdant rainforest teeming with life, where the air is filled with the sweet melodies of countless birds. This is Nyungwe National Park, a true birder's paradise nestled in the heart of Rwanda. With its diverse habitats, from dense montane forests to marshy wetlands, this park is home to a captivating array of avian species, many of which are elusive and endemic to the Albertine Rift.

1. Nyungwe National Park: A Birder's Haven in Rwanda

Nyungwe National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda, is one of the country's most treasured natural areas. Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers, the park is part of the Albertine Rift, a global biodiversity hotspot. Its dense, evergreen forests are home to a staggering variety of plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

2. Encountering Rwanda's Iconic Birds

The turacos are undoubtedly Nyungwe's most iconic bird species. Their vibrant plumage, shimmering with iridescent hues, is a sight to behold. Three of the most sought-after turaco species in the park are:

Great Blue Turaco: With its deep blue plumage and striking red crest, the Great Blue Turaco is a majestic bird.

Ruwenzori Turaco: This stunning bird is characterized by its metallic green plumage and long, slender tail.

Ross's Turaco: Smaller than its relatives, Ross's Turaco has a vibrant green body with a blue head and throat.

3. Rare and Endangered Species: A Conservation Priority

Nyungwe National Park is also home to several rare and endangered bird species, including:

Red-collared Mountain Babbler: A secretive bird found in the park's montane forests.

Albertine Owlet: A small owl endemic to the Albertine Rift.

Grauer's Swamp Warbler: An elusive warbler found in the park's wetlands.

4. Colorful Forest Dwellers: A Sunbird's Paradise

Nyungwe is renowned for its diverse sunbird population, which includes some of the most colorful birds in the park:

Purple-breasted Sunbird: A vibrant bird often seen hovering at flowers.

Blue-headed Sunbird: A striking bird with a blue head and throat.

Regal Sunbird: The largest sunbird species in the park.

Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird: An endemic sunbird found in the park's higher elevations.

5. Elusive Forest Floor Residents

While many birds in Nyungwe are found in the canopy, there are also several species that inhabit the forest floor:

Red-throated Alethe: A shy thrush often seen foraging for insects.

Archer's Ground Robin: A small robin endemic to the Albertine Rift.

Kivu Ground Thrush: A ground thrush similar in appearance to the Red-throated Alethe.

6. Best Birdwatching Spots in Nyungwe

Nyungwe National Park offers a variety of birdwatching opportunities:

Uwinka Overlook: A popular viewpoint for spotting turacos and other forest birds.

Kamiranzovu Marsh: A wetland area home to waterbirds like herons and egrets.

Karamba Trail: A challenging hike offering excellent opportunities to see forest birds.

Isumo Waterfall: A scenic waterfall where you can spot birds in the surrounding forest.

7. Optimal Seasons for Birdwatching in Rwanda

The best time to visit Nyungwe for birdwatching is during the dry season (December to March). However, the park can also be visited during the wet season (April to November).

8. Essential Birdwatching Equipment for Your Rwanda Adventure

To make the most of your birdwatching experience in Nyungwe, you'll need:

Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars is essential for observing birds.

Field guides and checklists: These will help you identify the birds you see.

Appropriate clothing and footwear: Comfortable, sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.

9. Tips for Responsible Birdwatching in Rwanda

Respect bird habitats: Avoid disturbing birds and their nests.

Minimize disturbance: Keep noise levels to a minimum and avoid feeding birds.

Support local conservation efforts: Consider staying at eco-friendly lodges and contributing to conservation projects.

Nyungwe National Park is a birder's dream destination, offering a unique opportunity to witness some of the most vibrant and elusive avian species in Africa. By embarking on a Rwanda birdwatching tour, you can experience the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder and contribute to the conservation of its incredible birdlife.

[moonlight-phobia]

✾𝚂𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚕𝚍✾

Epel X GN! Reader

Highly based from the TBHK Apology!

Angst.

References towards: Truth, Beauty, and Hatred by Christopher Larkin and Love’s First Kiss by Frank Churchill

“Are you upset that it wasn’t a real confession? I thought you already knew remember I mentioned it yesterday!“ it’s rare to see Epel so..teasing? Would that even be the right word too use at this moment. What was this even supposed to be!

“You got Vil and Rook off of my back for the rest of the day..so thank you..” dainty fingers gently patting the prefect’s shoulder. “Ah-“ the young man’s voice would crack a tad- are..were they crying? Epel’s bright blue hues would widen seeing the tears streaming down slowly from the other freshmen.

“You’re such a jerk-“ the cracking of their voice felt like a crack in the farmer boy’s heart.

“You..you could have told me what was going on and you- never mentioned anything from yesterday-!” It was known though the other worldly person in front of him was seen as a softie.

Easy prey like a little Townsend Warbler singing it’s melodic song before something else could pounce too make the melody break.

“I..I have to go it’s already late-“

But it wasn’t late! It’s only around two so what could they be late for!?

“Wait- wait no- I- please..please wait-“ Epel would take a step forward trying to follow after the prefect of Ramshackle.

Though..he couldn’t catch up they were already gone? How..were..no. He wouldn’t allow them to just leave like that..but he had told them- so was it really his fault?

His grandmother taught him better though to never make someone you care about cry or feel harm.

Seems..that he had done that though.

Lavender locks would billow around with the wind- it’s harsh and feels like it’s slapping right against his soft skin for the actions he committed too.

“I’ll..I promise I’ll make it up to you..” his voice barely audible even those from SavanaClaw wouldn’t have been able to hear it.

The wind comes bearing news of truth, beauty, and hatred across the silent world..

“They don’t need to waste their time with someone like that! I can’t believe the audacity of this human! I will announce this to Malleus-Sama immediately!”Sebek would grunt lowly pacing around the wooden flooring his boots smacking with every step of going back and forth.

“Crocy we are not doing that! You trying to get the whole school turned into frogs or something!” Ace would grunt lowly “I’m all in for beating up someone but hey we can do it ourselves..” a shudder running down his spine though at the thought of the Housewarden towards Diasomnia.

“For once I’m going to agree with Ace on this - a good idea and probably the last one he’ll ever have.” Deuce would speak calmly coming down the stairs holding a bowl under his arm.

“Shut up Juice. How are they doing-“ Ace would narrow his sharp red hues eyes darting at the navy haired male then towards the stairs again.

“Ugh-They..wouldn’t say anything to me only thing I could get from them was for them to change their clothes. I’m surprised you even got them to speak Sebek-“

The green haired male would grunt lowly “I saw them running back here and they told me what happened in their little rush. It’s been two days and people are starting to ask questions about where they are..” to be burdened with hearing the prefect cry and over someone else..they shouldn’t have to be crying at all.

“Well- least they changed clothes and they did eat a bit.” Deuce would shake his head slowly “The ghost here seem to be taking care of them along with Grim. Though the ghost definitely seem a bit more active and angry..”

Ace’s hand would move to rub the back of his own head “we can’t keep up the sick card for them forever. Think I can say for all of us that if Riddle finds out we are screwed along with Epel!”

Riddle seemed to take a liking towards the Ramshackle prefect. Treating them more like a sibling along with someone to teach the rules too- he had offered for a dorm transfer but the prefect he politely declined this. Saying they were happy at the broken down dorm.

“I say we find Epel and-“ grunting in dismay as his mouth was covered

“Nope I know where that was going and no way we are doing that you trying to get us expelled Sebek?!” Deuce would scowl gesturing with his free hand in a sort of ‘why’ gesture.

“Come on we have to go- much as I hate going to class we made sure they had lunch at least we can come back later for dinner-“ the fact that even Ace is concerned could be saying too much.

One song, I have but one song for you, one song, only for you, one heart…

Maybe..maybe this would be considered illegal- breaking and entering but the back door of Ramshackle was completely broken from its hinges.

Really this place needed to be fixed up.

“Nya?! What are you doing here showing your face like a creep-!”

Of course the annoying little cat..if it could even be called a cat.

“I’m here..to apologize-“

“Pa-! You gotta go I don’t wanna hear it from-Nyah- that wasn’t an invitation to walk in-!” Grim would growl lowly moving to suck in a breath going for a blow of blue flames- not expecting to be soaked in water? Yes water but..so fast too.

“Please..” his voice is so low and it looks like he hasn’t slept in day’s at all. Dark circles under normal bright blue hues. Lavender locks messy and all over the place even when he’s wearing his school uniform you can tell the Pomefiore student is out of it.

“I..” even Grim couldn’t say anything because Epel looks so pathetic. ”go..they are upstairs last room on the right hall-“

“Thank you..” it’s normal to hear him so soft spoken but hearing him talk at all..seemed rare. The monster would watch the boy for a moment noticing the basket- what was even in there?

Tenderly beating, Ever entering, Constant and true

“Prefect..there’s someone at the door..” Lou would speak lowly the sunken eyed ghost would float over to the figure beneath the sheets

“Who is it..” their voice was sunken like they had been in a marathon and no one had given them water.

“The boy-“ Rue would grunt lowly his larger figure hovering near the ceiling- he had poked his head between the walls too check.

“Please..please let me in- don’t shut me out..” Epel would set his hand against the door a bit surprised when he would fall forward a tad- the door had been open?

Well ghost can’t lock doors that’s most likely why.

“Should we drag him down with us?” Teru would grin his smile growing wider.

The ghost would watch their prefect for a moment seeing the little shake of their head. Before turning to Epel and getting close “We will be watching.” It was a blink of the eye and they were gone.

Epel..felt a sort of..chill the sort of chill one gets when looking back at one’s own shadow.

Slowly moving his feet and setting the basket down on the nightstand.

“I..I know you probably don’t want to talk to me at all..but..I’m sorry. Please believe me I never meant to make you cry. But..but please please allow me to stay here until you stop crying..you don’t have to say anything at all..”

Hearing the shifting of the blankets his head turning quickly and locking onto the hues of the other.

“I wasn’t..for sure if you’d like anything but I..I got some apples from my home..” moving his hand to the basket and slowly taking one out “they are really sweet and kind of remind me of cotton candy..”

Slowly moving to rest it into the hands of the prefect’s hands.

Watching them as they would very hesitantly take a small bite out the apple.

One love, that has possessed me, one love thrilling me through one song

“It..it does taste like cotton candy..” hearing their voice. Was like a dream-

A good dream.

Epel could feel the tears in his eyes “I never meant to be so mean to you..hah..I’ve always wanted to be a bigger man you know but making you cry makes me feel like a weakling and I never want to see you that way again-“ his voice cracking with every single word.

Feeling the small grip on his hand “Don’t go..stay-“ they would speak softly really Epel could feel the melody of the Townsend Warbler slowly coming back.

“I won’t go..I’ll be here..”

My heart keeps singing, of one love, only for you..

[naturecopy]

🔥 American Yellow Warbler in flight. The songbird is known for its sweet and melodious song, which has been described as a series of high-pitched notes that sound like "sweet-sweet-sweet" - 📸 Glen Noyer

[ukdamo]

El Yunque

R Rodriguez

The red-tailed hawk,

swoops to catch prey

The aggressive grey kingbird,

defends its nest

The Nightingale tweets

& sings all-day

The Elfin-woods Warbler,

Melodious and happy.

They got thirsty in the streets,

hated the choking smoke

So they came to you one day,

An oasis of peace

They’ve come to you many times,

Always to find the solace

El Yunque, rain forest,

in your embrace

Your strong arms pulled them

into the secret womb

To the sun-warmed rocks,

lie in mossy bowers

To sing love songs,

breathe the fragrant atmosphere

To kiss the gentle flowers,

pregnant with sweet nectar

Then cool, clear water fills

the bubbling springs

A  blanket of phantasm-grey mist

in the morning day

The sun pierces through it

With lances of light

It shines gleefully all day ‘til

darkness comes tiptoeing

Daylight yawns & moves on,

they burrowed in their nests

And the stars bathe

the rainforest with stardust.

[squawkoverflow]

A new variant has been added!

Nauru Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus rehsei) © Bird Explorers

It hatches from brown, coastal, little, melodious, pale, straight, strong, thin, and warm eggs.

squawkoverflow - the ultimate bird collecting game          🥚 hatch    ❤️ collect     🤝 connect

[limalosershq]

NAME: Blaine Anderson FACECLAIM: Anthony Keyvan AGE/BIRTHDAY: 21, July 27th GLEE CLUB: The Warblers (part of the council) SONG CHOICE: Dancing's Not A Crime by Panic! At The Disco MAJOR/MINOR/GRADE: Music Theory and Composition/Acting, Senior LOCATION: Off campus in Westerville, Ohio OCCUPATION: Occasionally performs at theme parks CLUBS/EXTRACURRICULARS/SPORTS: Fight club (founder/captain), drama, gay-straight alliance, photography

Idolizing The Warblers even before he got accepted into Dalton Academy, auditioning to become a member of the prestigious all-male a cappella group during his first week as a college freshman was practically a no brainer for Blaine. He is the group's biggest fan and supporter, and both his undying ambition as well as endless charm and compassion toward his peers have won him many hearts and solos with the council's approval since then.

While The Warblers typically opt to perform without any instrument, Blaine can usually be found at the grand piano. It has been his go-to ever since his parents made him take lessons when he was younger, and can definitely be considered a coping mechanism of sorts. He dreams of reaching the heights of Bowie and Freddie Mercury someday, and loves to belt out show tunes almost just as much as he does all things top forty. If you ever catch him at the Lima Bean, chances are you will find him working on his own melodies, accompanied by his usual medium drip and his trusty Dalton blazer.

Getting offered a seat at the Warblers council after being elected by the majority of votes, Blaine feels an extreme sense of duty to advance The Warblers to Nationals this year. Some might say he has bitten off far more than he can chew. Blaine, however, thrives under this exact kind of pressure; an immediate result of finding resilience after being bullied relentlessly back in high school as well as growing up in his older brother's much bigger footsteps and forever feeling like he has had something to prove.

IS THIS WHERE YOU PICTURED YOURSELF RIGHT NOW IN THE GRAND SCHEME OF THINGS?

I may have once pictured myself being at Juilliard. But, all things considered, Dalton has proven itself a really great second option and who's to say I won't still find my way to New York and attend Juilliard in the future regardless?

HOW’RE YOU FEELING ABOUT ALL THE SHOW CHOIR RIVALRY?

Some of it can get pretty extreme. I mean, making it a yearly tradition to be throwing eggs at somebody? I'm all for ruffling some feathers and intimidating the competition but that just crosses a line.

WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF A LIMA LOSER? WHERE EXACTLY IS YOUR LIFE HEADED, OR REALLY, WHERE SHOULD IT BE HEADING?

Not necessarily, no. I'd like to think it's headed somewhere. I guess I've always thought more of this as a stop along the way rather than the destination. Again, hopefully New York.

[wolverenmayden]

Birdsong

In the stillness of morning, I used to wake to the sweet symphony of birdsong outside my window. Their melodies carried on the breeze, filling me with tranquility and joy.

But now, a heavy silence hangs in the air, no longer punctuated by their music. The absence of their voices echoes loudly throughout my soul, leaving me hollow.

Oh, how I miss those little feathered creatures, with their vibrant plumage and joyful tunes. They brought life and light to each day, their presence like a balm for my weary heart.

But now they are gone, their songs silenced forevermore. I mourn their loss deeply, feeling an ache that never quite fades.

No more will I hear the chirp of robins or the trill of warblers in springtime. No more will I be woken by the dawn chorus that once greeted each new day with such beauty.

And so I pay homage to those lost voices, to the music that once filled my world with magic. May their memory live on in every rustle of leaves, in every gentle breeze that whispers through empty branches.

Farewell, dear friends of feather and song, your absence is felt keenly in this quiet world. Though you may have left us too soon, your legacy remains etched in our hearts forever.

[fernandovillarreal]

Ekant Retreat Resort: Where Memories are Crafted with Care"

In the heart of the picturesque Shimla hills, Ekant Retreat Resort stands as a testament to the art of creating lasting memories. The truth is, people may forget what they've been told or shown, but they never forget how they've been made to feel. This understanding is at the core of Ekant Retreat's philosophy.

Renowned as one of the best hotels in Shimla hills, Ekant Retreat Resort doesn't rely on glitzy show-offs to impress its guests. Instead, it focuses on crafting an experience that wraps you in snug comfort and contentment. Nestled at the fringes of the valley, this haven allows you to nestle into the lap of wilderness and tranquility.

Your stay at Ekant Retreat Resort is akin to a delicate posy, carefully composed of elements like pristine air, the melodies of twittering warblers, the sight of soaring hawks, exotic vistas, gourmet delights, recreational amusements, ornate lodgings, and intellectual kindling.

The resort's premise provides a perfect vantage point to behold the lush green landscapes, the delightful valleys, the stooping trunks of century-old cedar trees, and expansive pastures – all that epitomizes resorts in Chail.

But Ekant Retreat's commitment to excellence doesn't end with the outdoors. It extends to the smallest details of your experience, ensuring that every moment of your stay is a cherished memory in the making.

In the enchanting world of Ekant Retreat Resort, it's the small things that matter most. It's about crafting a stay that leaves you not just refreshed but deeply touched. Every element of the experience, carefully considered and thoughtfully executed, is a testament to the art of hospitality.

At Ekant Retreat Resort, the jewels aren't just in the surroundings; they are within every interaction, every corner of the premises, and every gesture of care. It's about turning moments into memories, and Ekant Retreat Resort does it in a way that's simply unforgettable.

Come, experience the magic of Ekant Retreat Resort and discover for yourself why it's among the best hotels in Chail and a treasure in the Shimla hills. Your journey of cherished memories begins here.

[gemtvusa]

Small birds 8K ULTRA HD with Names and Sounds

Small Birds in Vivid 8K Ultra HD: Names and Nature's Melodies Immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of small birds showcased in immaculate 8K resolution. This video not only offers vivid visuals of these avian wonders but also introduces each with their names and distinctive calls, letting you identify and appreciate them. Small BIRDS 8K ULTRA HD with Names and Sounds https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m91SBnRxlYQ From the vibrant hues of the cardinal bird and sunbird to the mesmerizing sounds of the dark-eyed junco and bearded reedling, each moment brings you closer to nature's beauty. Whether you're an avian enthusiast or just looking to unwind, this 8K experience provides both educational and aesthetic value. With added ambient sounds like the rustling of leaves, gentle waves, and distant animal calls, the ambiance becomes more authentic and immersive. For an enhanced viewing experience, we've incorporated educational elements, including commentary, voice-overs, and on-screen identifiers for each bird. Some of the avian stars featured include: - Scarlet tanager, cape longclaw, daurian redstart - White-crested helmetshrike, barred antshrike, red-backed shrike - Silver-breasted broadbill, european goldfinch, baltimore oriole - Golden-breasted starling, barred warbler, banded kingfisher - Broad billed hummingbird, woodlark, meadowlark ...and many more. With a delightful combination of nature's visuals and symphony, this video serves as a relaxing escape and an educational journey. Dive in and let the colorful world of birds enrich your day!

8K Ultra HD: The Pinnacle of Visual Clarity

As the world of technology constantly evolves, the realm of display resolutions has reached new heights with 8K Ultra HD. Here's a deep dive into this visual marvel: Definition: 8K Ultra HD, with a resolution of 7680 × 4320 pixels, offers a staggering four times the number of pixels as 4K (3840 × 2160) and sixteen times the resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080). Benefits: - Unparalleled Detail: 8K resolution captures intricate details that can be discerned even when viewed up close on massive screens. - Enhanced Depth: The richness of pixels in 8K translates to more depth and three-dimensionality, making visuals pop out. - Improved Color Accuracy: With the additional data in each frame, there's a broader range of colors and greater color accuracy. - Post-Production Flexibility: For videographers, having 8K footage means more flexibility during editing, such as cropping, zooming, and stabilizing videos without sacrificing quality. Hardware Considerations: - Display Size: To fully appreciate 8K, one would typically need a larger screen (65 inches or above). - High-speed Connections: Streaming or playing 8K content requires robust data handling. HDMI 2.1, for instance, supports 8K video at 60fps. - Storage: 8K videos, particularly those at higher frame rates, can be massive in size, necessitating considerable storage capacity. Content Availability: As of recent years, 8K content has been somewhat limited. However, with the advent of 8K cameras and TVs, more content creators are adopting this resolution, making it more accessible to the general audience. Future of 8K: With the proliferation of technology, 8K will likely become more standard, especially for larger displays and professional setups. As bandwidth improves and storage becomes cheaper, 8K could soon be as commonplace as 4K has become today. In conclusion, 8K Ultra HD is not just a step but a leap forward in the world of visual display technology, promising a viewing experience that is nothing short of mesmerizing. Whether for professional use or personal entertainment, 8K is the epitome of what the future holds. Read the full article

[happychirps]

Ashy Prinia:

The ashy prinia (Prinia socialis) is a small passerine bird belonging to the prinia family, Cisticolidae. It is also known as the ashy wren-warbler or ashy warbler. Here's some information about the ashy prinia bird.

Appearance: The ashy prinia is a small bird, measuring around 12 to 14 centimeters (4.7 to 5.5 inches) in length. It has a slender body with a long, graduated tail. The upperparts are primarily ashy-gray, while the underparts are pale grayish-white. It has a relatively short bill, a dark eye, and pale legs.

Distribution: The ashy prinia is native to South Asia and can be found in various countries including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and parts of Myanmar. It typically inhabits grasslands, scrublands, and open areas with tall grass or reeds.

Behavior and Diet: Ashy prinias are active and agile birds. They are known for their characteristic tail-wagging behavior, where they constantly move their tails up and down. They feed mainly on insects, foraging among vegetation and occasionally making short flights to catch prey. Their diet may also include spiders, small invertebrates, and seeds.

Breeding: During the breeding season, which varies across its range, the male ashy prinia establishes a territory and sings to attract a mate. The female constructs a cup-shaped nest using grass, leaves, and other plant materials, typically placed in low bushes or tall grasses. The female lays a clutch of 3 to 4 eggs, which she incubates for about 12 to 14 days. Both parents contribute to feeding the chicks until they fledge.

Vocalization: The ashy prinia is known for its varied and melodious song, consisting of a series of whistling, trilling, and warbling notes. Their vocalizations are an important means of communication within their territories.

Conservation Status: The ashy prinia is not globally threatened and is listed as a species of "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many bird species, it may face localized threats due to habitat loss and degradation.

The ashy prinia is a delightful bird to observe, known for its lively behavior and pleasant song. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts often enjoy encountering these charming little birds in their natural habitats.

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[hikeofthemonth]

June 2023 Mangum Dental Hike of the Month Granite Basin Lake Loop

Distance: 3.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Elevation Gain: 374 feet

Parking: There is parking on the west and east side of Granite Basin Lake and both sides have restrooms.  There is a Forest Service day use fee of $5.00 for parking.  I recommend parking near the boat dock on the east side of the lake.  

Directions: From the corner of Williamson Valley and Iron Springs Road, head west for 1.6 miles and take a right on Granite Basin Road.  Drive north on Granite Basin Road for just over 3 miles passing Yavapai Campground, and Cayuse Day Use Area.  Immediately after passing Wekuvde Day Use Area, the road turns into a one-way loop.  Stay to the right and in 1/4 mile turn right towards the boat dock.  Park near the boat dock.  

Summary

Many visitors to Granite Basin Lake consider it to be a pond, however, this area of Prescott is more precious than rubies.  It is close to town and this area offers camping, hiking, fishing, birding, mountain biking, and picnicking.  This time of year the Mint Creek area is teaming with green grasses, wildlife, and the melodious sound of running water.  The wet winter has provided a spring to remember.  This little lake and surrounding trails are safely tucked in at the base of Granite Mountain like a well-fortified city behind a strong wall.  On a recent Monday evening, my 7-year-old son was willing to hike with me.  This was a surprise as I am known for frustrating family members by misrepresenting the length or difficulty of hikes. This hike was short enough that we didn’t get too tired, and long enough to enjoy the outdoors and create positive memories. The trail was not overly exposed and the elevation was just enough of a challenge. The spring weather was absolutely perfect.

Exit the parking lot on the north side near the restrooms.  In May, there was still plenty of water flowing over the dam making Mint Creek a beautiful spectacle.  Just after the dam start hiking on Trail #345, Mint Wash Trail.  Stay to the left and follow the creek.  Barely into the hike (0.1 miles) there is the first of two creek crossings.  Strategically placed stones make it passable.  Hike mostly downhill for about 3/4 of a mile and come to the first junction.  Take a right on Trail #354, Mint Wash Connector Trail.  This is the second creek crossing.  Take this trail mostly uphill for 1 1/4 miles and enjoy the views of Granite Mountain on this well-marked trail with excellent signage.  The plant life is consistent with the area’s chaparral with pinyon pine trees, scrub oak, manzanita, and a couple varieties of cactus. Our next junction was Trail #348, Chimbley Water Trail.  Turn right and hike for about 1/4 mile.  The habitat changes quickly to Ponderosa Pine Forest, with plenty of shade and a soft breeze.  Turn right about at the junction with Trail #351, West Lake Trail.  This trail parallels Granite Basin Road for 1/2 mile.  Take another right on Trail #345 Mint Wash Trail.  The lake becomes visible as the trail climbs for an excellent view of the lake with the mountain in the background.  It is surprisingly easy to follow this trail.  Just remember when given the choice,  choose the right and enjoy this hike.  During our hike, we were able to identify a few birds including Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Bewick’s Wren, House Finch, Bridled Titmouse, Red-winged Blackbird, Yellow Warbler, and Mallard Duck.  

Other hikes that we have recorded in this immediate area include: April 2021 West Lake to Balancing Rook Loop October 2017 Just Go Left Loop from Cayuse Trailhead February 2015 Granite Mountain #261 Find these and all other achieved hikes at https://hikeofthemonth.mangumdental.com/

Link to Forest Service Map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3832043.pdf

Mangum Dental is a general dentist office that loves bringing you the hike of the month.  Find our past hikes at www.MangumDental.com.